A portable, reusable medication dispensing assembly which has communication capability to improve medication adherence is disclosed. An electromechanical apparatus sequentially delivers dosage form packages from a compartment in a housing to a dose-ready area in the housing. A microprocessor-based controller is reprogrammable with contact and prescription data. The controller controls the electromechanical apparatus to sequentially deliver the dosage form packages at prescribed times or time intervals to the dose-ready area based on the prescription data. The controller generates and stores a set of event data based on when the dosage form packages are ready to be released in the dose-ready area and whether and when the dosage form packages have been released in the dose-ready area. Communication apparatus is capable of wirelessly transmitting the event data via a publicly-accessible network to a remote database and to wirelessly transmit event notifications via the network based on the prescription and contact data.
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2. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a mechanism to release a single dosage form package from the medication strip at the dose-ready area, the mechanism supplying a signal indicating the release.
This invention relates to a medication dispensing assembly designed to improve the accuracy and reliability of medication delivery from a strip of pre-packaged dosage forms. The problem addressed is ensuring precise release of individual dosage forms at the correct time and location, while providing feedback to confirm successful dispensing. The assembly includes a medication strip containing multiple dosage form packages arranged in a linear sequence. A dose-ready area is positioned to hold a single package in preparation for release. The assembly further incorporates a release mechanism that selectively detaches a single dosage form package from the strip at the dose-ready area. This mechanism includes a signaling component that generates a confirmation signal upon successful release, allowing for real-time monitoring and verification of the dispensing process. The release mechanism may employ mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical means to ensure accurate separation of the package from the strip without damaging the dosage form or adjacent packages. The signaling component may use optical, electrical, or other sensing technologies to detect and report the release event. This invention enhances medication dispensing systems by providing automated, verifiable release of individual doses, reducing errors and improving patient safety in medication administration.
3. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the event data includes medication-missed event data.
The invention relates to a system for monitoring and managing medication adherence, addressing the problem of patients missing doses of prescribed medications. The system includes an assembly that collects and processes event data related to medication usage, with a focus on detecting and recording instances where a patient fails to take their medication as prescribed. The assembly may include sensors or other monitoring devices that track medication intake, such as smart pill bottles, wearable devices, or connected dispensers. The event data generated by these devices includes specific records of missed medication events, which are then analyzed to assess adherence patterns. The system may also incorporate alerts or notifications to remind patients to take their medication or to inform healthcare providers of non-adherence. By identifying and documenting missed doses, the system helps improve medication adherence, reducing the risk of treatment failures and adverse health outcomes. The assembly may further integrate with electronic health records or telehealth platforms to provide comprehensive adherence tracking and support. The invention aims to enhance patient care by leveraging real-time data to optimize medication management.
4. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the communication apparatus is capable of transmitting a plurality of notifications including a medication-missed reminder, a medication-taken signal and a medication-ready signal.
This invention relates to a communication apparatus integrated into a medication management system designed to improve adherence to prescribed drug regimens. The system addresses the problem of patients missing doses or taking incorrect medications by providing automated reminders and feedback. The communication apparatus is capable of transmitting multiple types of notifications to ensure proper medication management. These notifications include a medication-missed reminder, which alerts the user when a scheduled dose has been overlooked, a medication-taken signal, which confirms when a dose has been properly administered, and a medication-ready signal, which indicates when a new dose is prepared for consumption. The apparatus may use wireless communication protocols to send these notifications to a user's device or a central monitoring system. The system may also include sensors or input mechanisms to detect medication intake, ensuring accurate tracking of adherence. By providing real-time feedback and reminders, the invention helps prevent missed doses and reduces medication errors, particularly for patients with chronic conditions or complex regimens. The communication apparatus may be integrated into a smart pillbox, wearable device, or standalone unit, depending on the application. The invention aims to enhance patient compliance and improve health outcomes through automated monitoring and timely notifications.
5. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism to lock the assembly and a sensor to sense when the locking mechanism is tampered with and generate a corresponding signal wherein the controller generates tamper event data in response to the signal.
6. The assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the communication apparatus is capable of wirelessly transmitting the tamper event data.
A system for detecting and transmitting tamper events in a secure assembly involves a communication apparatus integrated with a tamper detection mechanism. The tamper detection mechanism monitors the assembly for unauthorized access or physical interference, such as attempts to open, disassemble, or otherwise compromise the integrity of the assembly. When a tamper event is detected, the communication apparatus generates tamper event data, which includes details about the nature and timing of the tampering. The communication apparatus is capable of wirelessly transmitting this tamper event data to a remote monitoring system or authorized recipient, ensuring real-time alerting and response. This wireless transmission capability allows for remote monitoring and immediate action, enhancing security and reducing the risk of undetected tampering. The system may also include additional features, such as encryption of the transmitted data to prevent interception or tampering with the communication itself. The overall solution addresses the need for secure, real-time monitoring of physical assemblies to prevent unauthorized access or tampering.
7. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller is reprogrammable with biometric data and wherein the assembly further comprises a biometric sensor to capture biometric input data, the controller comparing the biometric input data to programmed biometric data to identify an authorized user of the assembly.
9. The assembly as claimed in claim 8, further comprising a mechanism to release a single dosage form package from the medication strip at the dose-ready area, the mechanism supplying a signal indicating the release.
10. The assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the event data includes medication-missed event data.
11. The assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the communication apparatus is capable of transmitting a plurality of notifications including a medication-missed reminder, a medication-taken signal and a medication-ready signal.
This invention relates to a communication apparatus integrated into a medication management system designed to improve adherence to prescribed medication regimens. The system addresses the problem of patients missing doses or taking incorrect doses, which can lead to treatment ineffectiveness or adverse health outcomes. The communication apparatus is configured to transmit multiple types of notifications to ensure proper medication management. These notifications include a medication-missed reminder, which alerts the user when a scheduled dose has been overlooked, a medication-taken signal, which confirms that a dose has been administered, and a medication-ready signal, which indicates when a new dose is prepared for consumption. The apparatus may also include a sensor to detect medication intake, ensuring accurate tracking of adherence. The system can be part of a larger assembly that includes a medication container, a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized access, and a user interface for setting schedules and receiving alerts. The communication apparatus may use wireless or wired connections to relay notifications to the user or a healthcare provider, enhancing monitoring and support. This invention aims to provide a comprehensive solution for medication adherence by combining automated reminders, intake verification, and secure medication storage.
12. The assembly as claimed in claim 8, further comprising a locking mechanism to lock the assembly and a sensor to sense when the locking mechanism is tampered with and generate a corresponding signal wherein the controller generates tamper event data in response to the signal.
This invention relates to a mechanical assembly with enhanced security features, specifically a locking mechanism and tamper detection system. The assembly includes a locking mechanism designed to secure the device in place, preventing unauthorized access or movement. A sensor is integrated to monitor the locking mechanism for any tampering attempts, such as forced entry or unauthorized unlocking. When tampering is detected, the sensor generates a signal that triggers the controller to create tamper event data. This data can be used for monitoring, logging, or triggering additional security responses. The assembly may also include a housing with a base and a cover, where the cover is movable relative to the base to allow access to internal components. The locking mechanism ensures the cover remains securely fastened to the base, while the sensor continuously monitors the integrity of the lock. The tamper event data generated by the controller provides a record of security breaches, enabling further investigation or automated actions to mitigate risks. This system is particularly useful in applications requiring high security, such as electronic enclosures, safes, or access control systems.
13. The assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein the communication apparatus is capable of wirelessly transmitting the tamper event data.
14. The assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the controller is programmed with biometric data and wherein the assembly further comprises a biometric sensor to capture biometric input data, the controller comparing the biometric input data to the programmed biometric data to identify an authorized user of the assembly.
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December 11, 2019
November 1, 2022
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